Security Jobs in South Africa (2025): How to Apply and Get Hired Fast

Why Security Jobs Are in High Demand in South Africa

Security jobs in South Africa are booming, and 2025 is no exception. With a crime index of 75.4 in 2024, ranking the country among the world’s most dangerous, the need for private security is undeniable. Over 2.5 million registered guards—outnumbering police 4:1—make this the largest private security industry globally.

• Rising Crime Rates: With 70 murders daily reported in 2024, businesses and homeowners rely heavily on guards for protection.
• Growing Industries: Retail, logistics, and construction demand security, with retail alone employing up to 80% of guards to combat shoplifting. Interested in logistics roles? Explore DHL careers.
• Entry-Level and Skilled Roles: From beginners to PSIRA-registered professionals, there’s a role for everyone, including youth learnerships for ages 18–35. Learn more about learnerships in our guide to top learnerships.
• Post-COVID Shifts: Health screening and crowd control roles have surged since the pandemic, adding new job types.

“Crime’s a reality here, so security jobs are always in demand. It’s tough but rewarding.” – Security Guard, Cape Town (Reddit)

Sources: Statista, BusinessTech, BusinessTech

Types of Security Jobs Available in 2025

Whether you’re starting out or aiming for a specialized role, South Africa’s security industry offers diverse opportunities. Most jobs require registration with the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA), but some entry-level positions provide training. Here’s what’s out there:

Unarmed Security Guard

Patrol premises, monitor access points, and report incidents at malls, offices, or estates. It’s perfect for beginners, needing only basic fitness and alertness.

• PSIRA: Required (Grade D/E).
• Shifts: 8–12 hours, including nights and weekends.

Armed Response Officer

Respond to alarms or emergencies with firearms, requiring quick thinking and firearm training. You’ll drive to incidents, often in high-risk areas.

• PSIRA: Required (Grade B/A).
• Shifts: Irregular, often 12 hours, day or night.

Control Room Operator

Monitor CCTV footage and alarms from a central hub, coordinating responses. Tech-savvy folks thrive here, needing sharp focus.

• PSIRA: Required (Grade C/A).
• Shifts: 8–12 hours, often in shifts.

VIP/Executive Protection

Protect high-profile clients like CEOs or celebrities, using self-defense and firearms skills. It’s high-stakes and high-reward.

• PSIRA: Required (Grade A).
• Shifts: Long, irregular hours, often on call.

Retail Store Security

Prevent theft and ensure safety in shops, watching for shoplifters while assisting customers. It’s less formal, great for people skills.

• PSIRA: Optional.
• Shifts: Aligns with store hours (e.g., 9 AM–5 PM).

Access Control for Offices/Estates

Manage entry and exit at offices or gated communities, checking IDs and logging visitors. Attention to detail is key.

• PSIRA: Required (Grade D/E).
• Shifts: Office or estate hours, often 8–12 hours.

Mobile Patrol

Conduct vehicle patrols across multiple sites to deter crime, requiring a driver’s license and vigilance.

• PSIRA: Required (Grade C/A).
• Shifts: Often nights, 8–12 hours.

Event Security

Secure concerts, sports matches, or festivals, managing crowds and ensuring safety. It’s fast-paced and often temporary.

• PSIRA: Optional for temporary roles.
• Shifts: Event-based, evenings or weekends.

Sources: Security Guard Training HQ

Do You Need Qualifications or Experience?

Breaking into security doesn’t always mean years of training or experience. The Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) sets the rules, but there’s room for beginners. Here’s the lowdown:

What is PSIRA?

PSIRA regulates South Africa’s private security industry, ensuring guards meet training and ethical standards under Act 56 of 2001.

PSIRA Grades Explained

• Grade E: Entry-level, for basic patrolling or access control.
• Grade D: Access control in higher-risk areas, some supervision.
• Grade C: High-risk areas, supervising lower grades.
• Grade B: Advanced supervision, may involve documentation.
• Grade A: Supervisory or managerial roles, overseeing operations.

How to Register with PSIRA

Complete an accredited training course (e.g., Grade E costs ~R1,990). Submit your ID, criminal record check, and fees (individuals pay less than companies, ~R7,900 for firms). Approval takes 4–6 weeks if documents are correct.

Can You Apply Without PSIRA or Experience?

Yes! Entry-level Grade E jobs often include training while you register. No experience is needed, but basic literacy, fitness, and communication skills help. Some retail or event roles skip PSIRA entirely.

Learnerships for Youth (18–35)

12-month programs from companies like Servest offer Grade E/C training with stipends (R4,000–R7,000 monthly), ideal for young job seekers. Want to explore similar opportunities? Check out our guide to learnerships in South Africa.

Other Useful Skills

Fitness, conflict resolution, and first aid boost your chances, especially for armed or VIP roles. A strong CV highlighting these skills can make you stand out—create one with our CV maker.

Sources: PSIRA, Course Guide, Jobcare

How Much Do Security Jobs Pay in 2025?

Security jobs offer decent pay, varying by role, grade, and city. Here’s what to expect in 2025:

• Entry-Level Guards (Grade E/D): R5,000–R6,000/month. Higher in Johannesburg or Cape Town.
• Armed Response (Grade B/A): R7,000–R12,000/month. Includes night shift allowances (~R6–R8/shift).
• Control Room Operator: R6,000–R10,000/month. Grade A earns more.
• VIP Protection: R10,000+/month. High-risk roles command premiums.

Pay Differences by City

Urban areas (Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town) pay more than rural ones. For example, Grade A officers earn R6,907 in cities vs. R5,915 elsewhere.

Overtime and Night Shifts

Common, with allowances boosting earnings, especially for armed or patrol roles.

PSIRA Minimum Wages

Updated yearly, minimums range from R5,197 (Grade E) to R6,907 (Grade A) in urban areas.

“The pay’s steady, and overtime adds up fast. It’s enough to support my family.” – Armed Response Officer, Durban (Glassdoor)

Sources: Security Guard Training HQ, WageIndicator

Top Companies Hiring Security Guards

These trusted companies are hiring across South Africa in 2025:

• Fidelity ADT: Leaders in residential and business security (Careers).
• G4S: Global firm with local guard and response roles (Careers).
• Sibanye Stillwater: Mining security jobs, often with learnerships.
• Proforce: Growing company hiring armed and unarmed guards.
• Red Alert: Specializes in alarms and response teams.
• Servest: Offers security roles and youth programs.
• Chubb Security: Hires via job portals for various positions.

Sources: Briefly

How to Find and Apply for Security Jobs

Landing a security job is easier with the right approach. Here’s how:

1. Search Online: Check Indeed, Careers24, or JobMail. Use Gumtree cautiously to avoid scams.
2. Company Websites: Apply directly on Fidelity ADT or G4S careers pages.
3. In-Person: Visit local security offices with your CV—still works for many firms!
4. Build a CV: Highlight PSIRA registration, certifications, and references. Need help? Try our free CV maker.
5. Stay Ready: Keep certified ID and PSIRA certificate handy. Answer calls promptly—recruiters test availability.

Once you land an interview, preparation is key. Check out our interview tips to ace it. For more job-hunting strategies, visit our career blog.

Sources: Indeed, Careers24

Common Mistakes That Get You Rejected

Avoid these slip-ups to boost your chances:

• No PSIRA When Required: Most roles need it—check the ad.
• Spelling Errors on CV: Looks unprofessional and gets you ignored.
• Missing Documents: No ID or PSIRA certificate means rejection.
• Ignoring Calls: Recruiters call to check if you’re available—answer!

For a standout application, explore our ultimate job-hunting guide.

“I missed a call from a recruiter and lost the job. Now I always pick up!” – Job Seeker, Pretoria (Reddit)

Sources: Security Guard Training HQ

Security Career Growth Opportunities

Security isn’t just a job—it’s a career path with room to grow:

• Grade Progression: Move from Grade D to A with training, increasing pay and responsibility.
• Supervisory Roles: Become a site manager or team leader with Grade A.
• Public Sector: Transition to police or traffic roles with experience. Interested? Learn about government jobs.
• Own Business: Start your own security company after gaining PSIRA and experience. For more career inspiration, visit our career blog.

Sources: Security Guard Training HQ

Real Job Openings (April/May 2025)

Here are live security jobs for April/May 2025. Check company sites for updates:

• Security Officer – Fidelity Services Group: Gauteng, Grade D/E required (Apply).
• Hotel Security – Franschhoek: No PSIRA needed, hotel premises (Apply). Interested in hospitality? Explore hotel jobs.
• Security Guard – Johannesburg: Grade E, training provided (Apply).

Looking for jobs in Johannesburg? Discover more opportunities.

Sources: Fidelity ADT, Adzuna, Indeed

Frequently Asked Questions